The Temple of Diana is a Roman temple in the old centre of Mérida, built in the 1st century on the site of the city's municipal forum. Six Corinthian granite columns still support part of the front portico. A 16th-century palace was built into the temple, which helped keep its columns standing. It is the only Roman religious building from the city still standing in its original location. You can admire the temple from the square without a ticket, then pay to go inside. Allow time to walk to the nearby theatre and amphitheatre.
Built in the 1st century
The temple was built in the 1st century in the municipal forum of Augusta Emerita, the Roman city that was capital of the province of Lusitania. Its layout follows the usual pattern of classical temples: a rectangular base of granite, a row of six Corinthian columns across the front, and columns that continue partway along the sides.
The name points to the goddess Diana, but most accounts say the temple was dedicated to the imperial cult, most likely to Augustus. Visitors who expect a temple to the goddess will find the explanation on the plaques around the grounds.
From Roman temple to Renaissance palace
In the 16th century, a palace was built into the temple. It was the palace of the Count of Corbos, and it sits in the middle of the temple's structure. Although the palace is not Roman, it was left in place because it is part of the building's history.
The palace is one reason the temple is so well preserved. The Corinthian columns were incorporated into the palace walls, which helped them survive. The building behind the temple, which belongs to the palace, houses a small museum.
What to see on the site
The main view is the front of the temple, with its six columns rising from a raised platform. The columns are the clearest sign of the Roman design, and the plaques help you picture the original structure around them.
The temple sits in the middle of the old town, and the square around it is used for concerts. Restaurants and cafés line the area, so you can eat or have a drink close by. During Holy Week, religious processions pass the temple throughout the day.
Other Roman sites nearby
The Roman theatre and amphitheatre are about 500 metres away, a walk of around six minutes. The theatre is one of the main sights in Mérida, and the amphitheatre is where gladiatorial contests were held.
Other Roman remains in and around the city include the Roman circus, the Roman bridge over the Guadiana river and the Los Milagros aqueduct. The National Museum of Roman Art, designed by the architect Rafael Moneo, holds mosaics, sculptures, coins and glassware from the city's Roman period. A combined ticket covers several of the Roman sites in town, so check its coverage before buying single entries.
Häufige Fragen
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the inside of the temple is paid. You can see the columns from the square without a ticket.
Do I need to book ahead?
Booking ahead is recommended, since queues can form at the entrance.
Is the temple wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
How far is the temple from the Roman theatre?
It is about 500 metres, roughly a six-minute walk, from the Roman theatre.
